Orlando was once a small cattle town with no
more than 200 inhabitants. Now it is the family entertainment
capital of the world and this planet's most popular vacation spot.
It would take several holidays to experience
all that this fabulous place has to offer and there is literally
something to suit every taste and age group. We cannot cover
everything here but we do mention some of our favorites.
We strongly suggest that you buy a good
guidebook such as the, 2001 Orlando Travel Guide, This will tell you
everything you need to know and give you some useful tips for
getting the best out of the Orlando area.
You have probably heard a lot about "Disney’s
“Magic Kingdom“, “Epcot“,
“ Animal
Kingdom” and the “Disney
- MGM Studios Park“. Of course you should not miss any
of these, but there are a lot more parks and entertainment
opportunities to experience other than those of the Disney variety.
One of our favorites is “Universal
Studios“. There are many exciting rides and
attractions a lot of them more modern and adult oriented than those
at Disney. Last year, Universal added another fabulous park called
“Islands
of Adventure”. Here you can experience “ The Lost
Continent”, “Jurassic Park” and see villains and super heroes
battle it out on “Marvel Super Heroes Island”
In Florida, water is not far away and if you
want to cool off, try “Disney's
Blizzard Beach” where the “Summit Plummet” will
speed you down 120 feet at 60 miles an hour. In the “Typhoon
Lagoon“, you can go white water rafting or even swim
with sharks if you dare!
Animal lovers will enjoy “Sea
World” with its fascinating and entertaining live
animal and sea creature shows. Kids will learn a lot too as well as
having fun.
Eating out is all part of the American
Experience and Orlando has more of its fair share of every type of
eatery from fast food to feasts, from southern specialties to ethnic
restaurants.
For a rip roaring night out, try “King
Henry's Feast” where you can watch an exciting display of
horsemanship and knightly combat as well as eating and drinking
heartily just like they did hundreds of years ago.
If more modern pleasures are your style try
the “Hard Rock Cafe”
for some of the best burgers and rock music in town or dine with
your screen idols and their memorabilia at “Planet
Hollywood“.
Our favorite show though is “Cirque
du Soleil” - a truly breathtaking blend of circus
acrobats, aerialists, street entertainment, magical lighting and
costumes all connected with stunning music. This is a must see for
young and old.
After dark, head for the “Downtown
Disney Market Place” for great shopping dining and a
non stop street party every night of the year.
When you’ve done all you can do in Orlando,
then it’s time to take a walk on the mild side with a stay on the
relaxing Gulf Coast.